TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill that would give legislators more oversight of bonds or other debt for major building projects.
The measure advanced Friday on a voice vote. The House expects to take final action Monday.
The bill would require the Legislature to approve the debt for a project worth $25 million or more. Legislative leaders and the governor could approve smaller projects.
The requirements also would cover lease-purchase agreements.
The measure is a reaction to two projects without prior legislative approval.
A nonprofit corporation formed by the University of Kansas is financing major campus improvements with $327 million in bonds issued by a Wisconsin agency.
And Gov. Sam Brownback recently canceled a $20 million plan for a new power plant near the Statehouse.
